Former Australian cricketer Allan Border, after whom the Border-Gavaskar Trophy has been named, slams the Australian tactics and strategies against India’s Virat Kohli during the first Test match in Perth. Virat Kohli helped team India clinch a dominating victory by 295 runs against Australia, becoming the only side to beat them at Optus Stadium.
Australian legend Allan Border expressed his disappointment with how Pat Cummins’ Australian team handled their encounter with the Indian side, suggesting they fell short in key moments and lacked the usual intensity expected from an Australian outfit.
He also questioned Pat Cummins’ captaincy, pointing out tactical errors and decisions that may have contributed to Australia’s underwhelming performance against India. Border emphasized the need for stronger leadership to match the high standards traditionally associated with Australian cricket.
Allan Border stated, “I was really disappointed in the way we let Virat Kohli roll on to a hundred without much resistance in Perth. We don’t want this guy full of confidence for the rest of this series.”
Matthew Hayden pointed out the minute errors made by the Kangaroos, such as field placements, bowling strategies, and missed opportunities, which collectively allowed the Indian team to capitalize and gain the upper hand in crucial moments of the game.
Hayden stated, “They missed a few tricks with Virat Kohli in the early part of his innings. Nathan Lyon had mid-on back, one on the off-side catching, and a mid-wicket. I felt like it was so easy for him to get off strike.”
“You can’t cut a sucker an even break when a bloke is under pressure as he was. The field we actually finished with – two slips, no point, a man straight – it offered up the outside edge of his bat as well. He found it a little more frustrating. When he got the bit between the teeth, it was too late.” he added.
The disappointment from Allan Border and Matthew Hayden showcases the high expectations placed on the Australian cricket team and highlights concerns over their strategy, execution, and leadership in pivotal matches, particularly against a formidable opponent like India.
